Lack of tree guards defeats purpose

Rajender had directed officials last month to purchase sufficient tree guards to protect saplings planted in Haritha Haram project. But most of the plants planted in the state-run schools do not have any tree guards. Moreover some of the state-run schools do not have compound walls or security. Together, all these issues might make the survival of saplings a little difficult.

Gaddam Rajashekhar, state executive member, of the Telangana State United Teachers Federation said, “It is the responsibility of the government to build compound walls in all the schools and deploy guards in each of them. Most of the schools don’t have proper compound walls and security to safeguard the plants due to which many plants get destroyed almost as soon as they are planted making the whole exercise futile and pointless.”

He adds, “Though students take care of the plants during school time, once they leave for home, it is not possible to check the plants. And with no wall or tree guard, the sapling may not survive. Considering that the student will also be assessed for the care he gives to the plant, it is imperative that protection is organised. Otherwise the child will also lose out on the marks and the green drive will also be unsuccessful.”

M. Ravindar, president, Telangana Progressive Teachers’ Federation said, “There are enough officials in the state government to protect plants. Why does the government want to give this responsibility to children when they already have responsibilities of their studies and extracurricular activities?”